Amnesty International has condemned recent killings in Nigecria’s Benue and Plateau states, accusing authorities of failing to protect vulnerable communities amid a surge in violence.
At least 10 people were reportedly killed in Mbalom, in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State, during attacks by suspected armed herders over the Easter period. The assailants are said to have targeted several communities, including Mbalom, Mbatsada, and Agana, killing residents and forcing others to flee.
The chairman of Gwer West Local Government Area, Timothy Adi, confirmed the incident, saying the attack took place between 17:00 and 18:00 local time.
“Nine bodies have so far been recovered, two yesterday and seven today,” he said, describing the assault as unprovoked and calling for urgent federal intervention.
Similar violence was reported in other parts of the country during the same period. In Kaduna State, gunmen attacked two churches in Ariko village, killing five worshippers and abducting 31 others, who were later rescued by security forces.
In Katsina State, a police officer was killed during attacks in Musawa and Matazu areas. Meanwhile, in Borno State, suspected Boko Haram fighters reportedly attacked communities around Chibok, burning homes and displacing residents.
In a statement released on Monday, Amnesty International expressed concern over what it described as a worsening humanitarian crisis, noting that many families are still searching for missing relatives.
The organisation said more than 500,000 people have been displaced in Benue State, with many living in camps lacking adequate access to food, clean water, sanitation, and healthcare.
It criticised the government’s response to the recurring violence, saying the situation reflects a broader pattern of insecurity.
“The Nigerian authorities have failed the people of Benue State again and again,” the organisation said. “Frequent attacks by gunmen have deprived thousands of people of their rights to life, physical integrity, liberty, freedom of movement and access to livelihoods.”
There has been no immediate response from the government of Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding the latest incidents.
The attacks have intensified concerns over security in parts of northern and central Nigeria, particularly during major public holidays when communities are seen as more vulnerable.
